Obituary of James William Cassada

James William Cassada, 63, passed away Wednesday, December 20, 2017 at Moses Cone Hospital, with his family by his side. He never stopped working as he fought a long battle with cancer. James was born December 24, 1953 in Margate, England where his father, Maxwell Cassada, was stationed in the US Air Force. James is preceded in death by his mother, Velma DeBause Rollins and stepfather, Weldon Eugene Rollins. He is survived by his beloved wife, Annette and stepchildren Ryan, Brandon, and Megan Hays; sons James Jr. and Eugene Cassada; and daughters Heather and Amber Cassada; sisters Theresa Boyd, Deborah Sullivan and stepsister Gloria Orrock; seven grandchildren; and numerous aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces and nephews. One of James' fondest memories growing up was spending a year in Clarksville, Virginia with his grandmother, Fannie Mae DeBause, whom he loved dearly. James attended Smith High School and was a member of the ROTC which he really enjoyed. He went on to GTI (GTCC) and completed an auto mechanic program further enhancing his knowledge and love of cars! In the 1970s he built and raced AA/Fuel Dragsters in NHRA events, winning a Divisional Championship. During his career, James was proud of the fact that he worked for Richard Childress Racing on short block track motors. For the last 18 years, James owned and operated The Garage, a successful automotive repair shop in Greensboro. He loved his shop and worked 364 days a year - it took some coaxing to keep him home on Christmas! James took such good care of his customers, often loaning them a car to use while their car was being repaired. All who knew James, knew his wisdom and kindness; they knew his love of history, his passion for Nascar,and his sense of humor! James had such a big heart and helped many friends. We miss him deeply but know he is no longer in pain. Funeral service will be held at 2:00pm on Saturday, December 30, 2017 at Lambeth-Troxler Funeral Home with visitation one hour prior. A graveside service will follow at Forest Lawn Cemetary. On-line condolences can be made at http://www.lambethtroxlerfuneralhome.com